Examining the modus operandi of sexual offenders against children and its practical implications

Examining the modus operandi of sexual offenders against children and its practical implications

Author

Leclerc, Benoit; Proulx, Jean; Beauregard, Eric

Journal Name

Aggression and Violent Behavior

Editor

Michel Hersen & Vincent van Hasselt

Year Published

2009

Place of publication

Netherlands

Publisher

Elsevier

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the theoretical, empirical, and practical implications related to the modus operandi of sexual offenders against children. First, the rational choice perspective in criminology is presented. Second, descriptive studies aimed specifically at providing information on modus operandi of sexual offenders against children are also presented. This is followed by research that investigates the links between the modus operandi of sexual offenders against children and various factors such as victim characteristics. Third, offenders' treatment, as well as situational crime prevention implications in regards to modus operandi, is discussed in order to highlight their respective potential for the prevention of child sexual abuse.

Copyright 2009 Elsevier. This is the author-manuscript version of this paper. Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher. Please refer to the journal's website for access to the definitive, published version.